When planning a building project whether it’s a home, business, or public facility one of the biggest challenges is understanding who does what in the design and construction process.
Terms like architect, designer, interior designer, and contractor are often used interchangeably but each professional brings a unique set of skills, responsibilities, and qualifications.
At Lilly Architects, we often collaborate with all four roles to deliver cohesive, well-executed spaces across Tulsa and Oklahoma. Here’s a clear guide to help you understand the difference and how to choose the right professionals for your project.
1. The Architect
An architect is a licensed professional responsible for designing safe, functional, and aesthetically refined buildings. They combine creative vision with technical precision — ensuring your project meets both design goals and building regulations.
What Architects Do
- Create conceptual and technical building designs
- Prepare detailed drawings and construction documents
- Ensure compliance with building codes and zoning laws
- Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and contractors
- Oversee construction to maintain design integrity
Qualifications
Architects must earn a professional degree in architecture, complete supervised training, and pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
In Oklahoma, architects are licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Architects, Landscape Architects, and Registered Interior Designers.
When to Hire an Architect
You need an architect if your project involves:
- New construction or home additions
- Structural modifications
- Building permit requirements
- Custom residential or commercial design
At Lilly Architects, we lead projects from concept through construction — ensuring every line drawn translates into a durable, beautiful, and code-compliant space.
2. The Designer
Designers, sometimes referred to as decorators, focus on the visual composition and usability of interiors but are not licensed to prepare or seal construction drawings for permitting. For projects requiring code compliance or permitting documentation, an Interior Designer or Architect must be involved.
What Designers Do
- Develop interior layouts and room configurations
- Select color palettes, materials, and finishes
- Plan furniture arrangements and lighting concepts
- Create mood boards and 3D visualizations
Designers ensure a space feels cohesive and reflects the client’s personal taste.
They often collaborate with architects and contractors especially when a project needs stylistic input rather than more technical redesign.
When to Hire a Designer
Hire a designer if you’re:
- Redesigning interiors without changing walls or structure
- Remodeling existing spaces like kitchens or offices
- Selecting materials, furnishings, and lighting fixtures
Designers focus on how your space looks and feels — creating harmony and visual comfort.
3. The Interior Designer
A licensed interior designer does everything a designer does plus far more. Backed by formal education, experience, and state licensure, they design and document interior environments that enhance health, safety, and welfare. Licensed interior designers combine creative design with technical expertise, ensuring code-compliant, functional, and inspiring spaces.
What Interior Designers Do
- Plan interior layouts and traffic flow
- Select furniture, lighting, finishes, and color schemes
- Design custom millwork, cabinetry, and built-ins
- Ensure accessibility and code compliance
- Oversee installation and finishing
Many interior designers are members of professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and hold certifications that validate their expertise.
When to Hire an Interior Designer
- You want a fully coordinated interior with purpose and cohesion
- You’re selecting finishes for a new construction project
- You need lighting, material, or furniture specifications
- You want interiors aligned with architectural design
At Lilly Architects, our team integrates interior design services alongside architecture ensuring a seamless flow between structure, materials, and atmosphere.
4. The Contractor
A contractor (or general contractor) is responsible for turning design plans into reality. They manage labor, materials, schedules, and budgets to ensure the project is built as intended.
What Contractors Do
- Manage on-site construction and safety
- Hire and supervise subcontractors
- Procure materials and manage logistics
- Oversee quality control and inspections
- Communicate with architects and clients throughout construction
Qualifications
Most contractors are licensed and insured, with years of hands-on experience. They often specialize in certain types of projects residential, commercial, or historic restoration.
When to Hire a Contractor
- You’re ready to build or renovate
- You already have architectural or interior design drawings
- You need project management and cost control
At Lilly Architects, we collaborate with trusted contractors across Tulsa — ensuring a transparent, efficient, and well-coordinated building process.
How These Professionals Work Together
Every successful project relies on collaboration among these four roles.
When all professionals collaborate under one vision, the result is a space that’s cohesive, efficient, and timeless.
Who Should You Hire First?
If you’re unsure where to begin:
- Start with an Architect for any structural or new build project.
- Bring in an Interior Designer for finish and functionality refinement.
- Add a Designer when the scope focuses mainly on furniture, finishes, and styling.
- Engage a Contractor once plans and approvals are ready.
The right order ensures smoother coordination, accurate pricing, and fewer design changes mid-project.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a home, workplace, or public building, successful design is about more than aesthetics it’s about shaping spaces that unite vision, function, and craftsmanship.
Each professional the architect, designer, interior designer, and contractor brings essential expertise to the table. Together, they transform your ideas into a space that’s not only beautiful but built to last.
At Lilly Architects, we combine these disciplines through collaboration and clear communication guiding clients in Tulsa and across Oklahoma from concept to completion with creativity, precision, and trust.
Contact us: connect@lillyarch.com